What the Irish public model says
The HSE Adult ADHD Model of Care describes adult assessment as a multi-stage process. It highlights developmental history, current functional impairment and possible co-existing mental-health conditions rather than relying on a single score.
Why screening is only one part
The HSE model includes self-rating scales in pre-assessment screening, including the WHO Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale. A screening result helps decide what should be explored further; it does not itself establish ADHD.
What information is useful to gather
Childhood evidence
School reports, old comments, family recollections and examples of early attention, organisation or activity difficulties can all help build developmental context.
Current impairment
Bring concrete examples from work, study, relationships, driving, finances, household management and daily organisation.
Other conditions
Sleep problems, anxiety, depression, autism, trauma, substance use and physical-health issues may overlap with or coexist alongside ADHD.
Existing information
Bring relevant reports, previous assessment information and any school, workplace or psychological records that may help clarify developmental history and current functioning.
Public and private pathways are not identical
The HSE Model of Care describes the public adult ADHD pathway, including referral through mental-health services. Private assessment routes can differ in referral process, waiting time, assessment structure and follow-up arrangements. Before booking privately, ask exactly what the assessment includes, what written output is provided and what support is available after the assessment.
Official source
HSE: ADHD in Adults Model of Care — updated June 2026.
More ADHDclearfocus Ireland resources
Start with structured self-observation
If you are deciding whether a formal assessment is worth pursuing, the ADHDclearfocus self-assessment can help you organise examples before speaking to a clinician. It does not diagnose ADHD.
Free ADHD self-assessment →Prepared by the ADHDclearfocus editorial team and clinically reviewed through Focused Care Psychology. Last reviewed 4 September 2026. Pathways and service availability can change; check current official guidance and provider information.